Data Collection Tools

 There are many ways of collecting data needed for the action research
project. The choice depends on the availability of such or the capacity
of the researcher to gather theme as deemed relevant and appropriate
to the study. The following are some data collection tools that may be
considered in conducting an action research. Most of these tools are
just within the researcher’s reach or even in his/her control and safe
keeping.
 Case Study

 A case study is usually in-depth description of a process, experience, or structure at a single

institution. In order to answer a combination of ‘what’ and ‘why’ questions , case studies
generally involve a mix of quantitative (i.e. surveys, usage statistics, etc.) and qualitative
(i.e. interviews, focus group discussion, document analysis, etc.) data collection techniques.
Most often, the researcher will analyze quantitative data first and then, use qualitative
strategies to look deeper into the meaning of the trends identified in the numerical data.
Checklist

 Checklists structure a person’s observation or evaluation of a

performance or artifact. They can be simple lists of criteria that can be
marked as present or absent, or can provide space for observer’s
comments. These tools can provides consistency over time between
observers. Checklists can be used for evaluation databases, virtual
Instant Messaging (IM) service, the use of library space, or for
structuring peer observation of instruction sessions.
 Interviews

In depth interviews include both individual

interviews (e.g. one-on-one), as well as “group”
interviews (including focus group). The data can be
recorded in a wide variety of ways, including
stenography, audio recording, video recording or
written notes. In depth interviews differ from direct
observation primarily in the nature of the
interaction. In interviews, it is assumed that there is
a questioner and one or more interviewees. The
purpose of the interview is to probe the ideas of the
interviewees about the phenomenon of interest.
 Observation

Sometimes, the best way to collect data is through observation. This can be done directly or indirectly with the subject
knowing or not knowing that you are observing him/her. You may choose to collect data through continuous observation or
via set time period depending on your project. You may interpret the data you gather using the following mechanisms:
1. Descriptive observations. You simply write down what you observe.
2. Inferential observations. You may write down an observation that is inferred by the subject’s body language and
behavior.
3. Evaluative observations. You make an inference and therefor, a judgment from the behavior. Make sure you can
replicate these findings.
 Survey Questionnaires

Surveys or questionnaires are

instruments used for collecting data in
survey research. They usually include a
set of standardized questions that
explore a specific topic and collect
information about demographics,
opinions (Called opinionnaires),
attitudes, or behaviors.
Tips in Data Collection with Question Problem

 Match data sources to the research questions

 Collect data from as many sources as possible
 Keep data log that includes dates, time, and data information
collected.
 Organize your data around themes, key issues or topics.
Example
Title: Distance Learning Effectiveness to Learning Outcome as Predicted by
Student’s Characteristics and Design Features

Research Question:
1. What are the learner’s characteristics terms of;
1. age
2. sex,

2. What is the level of student’s learning outcomes in terms of students’;

1. Satisfaction (perceptual dimension),

2. information processing (cognitive dimension), and
3. affective dimension (motivation/valuing)?
1. What are the learner’s characteristics terms
of;
1. age
2. sex,
What is the level of student’s learning outcomes in terms of students’;

1. Satisfaction (perceptual dimension),

2. information processing (cognitive dimension), and
3. affective dimension (motivation/valuing)?
What is the level of student’s learning outcomes in terms of students’;

1. Satisfaction (perceptual dimension),

2. information processing (cognitive dimension), and
3. affective dimension (motivation/valuing)?
What is the level of student’s learning outcomes in terms of students’;

1. Satisfaction (perceptual dimension),

2. information processing (cognitive dimension), and
3. affective dimension (motivation/valuing)?
Types of questions
used in a Survey
Questionnaire
1. THE FREE-ANSWER TYPE
also called the open form, open ended,
subjective, unrestricted, essay, and
unguided response type

2. THE GUIDED RESPONSE TYPE

This is also called the closed form or
restricted type.
1. THE FREE-ANSWER TYPE

Sample question:
As a student, what are the struggles you face everyday?
 These are open-ended questions that requires explanations and impressions.
Response:
Time and budget management. We need to manage our time properly but
there have been a lot of projects, and other school activities lately. We
also need to budget our money to be able to comply with our projects,
school fees, food, and other stuff.
 TYPES OF GUIDED RESPONSE TYPE
1. Recall – type of question asking for specific
information such as age, address, grade level,
etc.
2. Recognition - Questions that asks for a
response to a specific question where options
are given. It may be a multiple choice, rating
scale or checklist
 Recall
Type of question Please fill out the information
needed in the questionnaire.
asking for specific
information such as Albert Aquino
Name: ________________
Male
age, address, grade Sex: __________________
15
Age: __________________
level, nationality, 11
Grade Level: ___________
etc.
TYPES OF RECOGNITION

1. Dichotomous
2. Multiple Choice
3. Multiple Responses
4. Scale
 Dichotomous
There are only
two options and
x
only one is
selected.
x
Multiple Choice
Questions that How often do you visit your doctor for a check-

requires only one up?

answer from a Monthly

multiple options
x Quarterly

Annually
 Multiple Responses
Questions What social media cites do you use?

that may have x

multiple x Facebook Snapchat

responses x Instagram
x Tumblr

Whatsapp Google +
Scale
Questions are QUESTIONS 1 2
Never Sometimes
3
Most of
the time
4
Always

answered
x
Studying my
lessons

according to
the given scale.
Doing my
assignments at
home
x
1. Grade Level: _____________________
2. Schedule of Class:
 6:30 – 12:00
 10:00 – 5:20
 1:00 – 7:00
3. How much do you spend for food in school? ___________
4. Which of the following desserts/cold drinks you probably would buy if it is being sold in the
canteen?
a.Fruit Salad e. Yema Cake
b.Cake f. Cupcakes
c.Ice cream g. Cookies
d.Mango Float h. Halo-halo
e.Yema Cake i. Shake
f. Maja Blanca Others (please specify) _____________

5. How do you like the food being sold in the canteen? ____________
1 – Very Poor , 2 – Poor , 3 – ok , 4 – good, 5 – very good